Nova Scotians warned about false heat pump rebate promises

CITYnews halifax / By Chris Halef

Efficiency Nova Scotia is warning residents about predatory sales tactics from companies falsely promising rebates that, in some cases, never materialize.

Spokesperson Janet Tobin told 95.7 NewsRadio the organization has heard from people who say these companies pushed high-interest, long-term financing for heat pump installations while making rebate promises they could not keep.

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“There are some cases where companies are flat-out lying about being us or being affiliated with us and promising rebates that will come faster,” Tobin said. “Often, in those cases, applications have never been submitted to us. So, by the time you start making financing payments expecting a rebate, when you give us a call, we don’t have an application on file.”

She said red flags to watch for include companies making bold claims, such as fast-tracking approvals or guaranteeing quick rebates. She added that if something sounds too good to be true, it often is.

Tobin said anyone who believes they have fallen victim to one of these companies should contact local police.